Agilent 990 Micro GC Hayesep A Channels

Significance of the topic

The ability to perform fast, accurate, and field-deployable gas analyses is crucial for applications in natural gas quality control, environmental monitoring, and industrial process control. Micro gas chromatography (Micro GC) systems address these needs by integrating miniaturized components that reduce analysis time, sample consumption, and system footprint.

Objectives and study overview

This data sheet describes the performance and configuration options of the Agilent 990 Micro GC equipped with HayeSep A columns. The primary goal is to demonstrate how different column lengths and backflush configurations affect separation efficiency, analysis speed, and detection limits for permanent gases up to C₃, with a focus on natural gas components.

Methodology

The system operates under isothermal conditions, typically up to 160 °C, using MEMS-based injectors and micro thermal conductivity detectors (TCD). Independent channel control and pneumatic pressure programming enable precise management of carrier gas flow and column pressures. Sample introduction uses a 1.6 mm Valco fitting with a replaceable 5 µm stainless steel filter, handling noncondensing gases from ambient up to 110 °C.

Instrumentation used

• Agilent 990 Micro GC with up to four analytical channels
• MEMS-based injectors (1–10 µL injection volume, heated to 110 °C)
• Isothermal capillary columns: HayeSep A phase in straight or backflush modes, lengths of 0.25 m or 0.4 m (with optional 1 m precolumn for backflush)
• Micro thermal conductivity detectors (dual-channel, 200 nL volume, four filaments)
• Carrier gases: He, H₂, N₂, or Ar at 550 ± 10 kPa

Main results and discussion

Performance metrics were evaluated for three HayeSep A configurations:

• 0.25 m straight column: resolution (N₂/C₂H₆) of 6.5, detection limit 2.4 ppm, repeatability <1% RSD
• 0.4 m straight column: resolution 1.2, detection limit 1.8 ppm, repeatability <0.4% RSD
• 0.4 m with 1 m backflush precolumn: resolution 0.9, detection limit 1.8 ppm, repeatability <0.4% RSD

All configurations achieved baseline separation of air composite, methane, carbon dioxide, ethane, and propane in under two minutes. Backflush options effectively remove heavier compounds, shorten cycle time, and protect column integrity.

Benefits and practical applications

The Agilent 990 Micro GC with HayeSep A channels offers:

• Rapid analysis for routine natural gas monitoring
• Compact and portable design suitable for field deployment
• Flexible column configurations to tailor resolution and speed
• Minimal maintenance due to MEMS-based injectors and robust detectors

Typical use cases include natural gas quality assurance, pipeline leak detection, and environmental air monitoring.

Future trends and potential applications

Advances in MEMS fabrication, multi-dimensional separations, and AI-driven data processing will further enhance Micro GC capabilities. Emerging stationary phases and detector technologies are expected to extend analysis to heavier hydrocarbons and trace contaminants. Integration with wireless networks and on-site monitoring platforms will broaden real-time decision-making in energy and environmental sectors.

Conclusion

The Agilent 990 Micro GC equipped with HayeSep A channels delivers fast, reliable analysis of permanent gases in a compact format. Its configurable columns and backflush options provide a balance of speed, resolution, and robustness, making it an effective tool for industrial, environmental, and research laboratories.

References

• Agilent Technologies. Agilent 990 Micro GC HayeSep A Channels Data Sheet, 2024.